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American Football: Patriotic cause

He is as low-key as his team, but the most successful coach of his era is aiming for a third Super Bowl victory tonight

DAVE HANNIGAN IN AMERICA

February 6 2005, 12:00am, The Sunday Times

His name is Bill Belichick, and tonight his New England Patriots enter Super Bowl XXXIX chasing their third title in four seasons. If the Patriots overcome Philadelphia Eagles in Jacksonville, Florida (and Las Vegas bookmakers make them strong favourites) they will lift the Vince Lombardi trophy, named after the greatest coach in the history of American football. Having outstripped all of his contemporaries, Belichick is now being measured alongside the game’s most revered icon.

“Lombardi’s record speaks for itself,” says Belichick. “It’s flattering to have my name mentioned with his. I don’t think I’m deserving of that. I’m fortunate to be coach of this team. This is a special group of guys and it’s a credit to them that they put so much into it.…